Jose's obituary
Jose Rafael Chapeton, 77, of Bethesda, Maryland, beloved father, entered into eternal rest on Friday, June 30, 2023. He was born in Cali, Colombia on March 19, 1946. He spent his youth in Caracas, Venezuela before deciding on a whim to move to the United States in 1968 with his best friend, having only $50 to his name. He arrived at Dulles Airport in December with no concrete plans.
Jose was the embodiment of the American Dream: over his lifetime, he built a successful moving business, married, had 3 children, and was proud that all 3 children became first-generation college graduates.
Jose’s love of dad jokes was legendary. He loved nothing more than telling the same joke and laughing as if it were the first time he had ever told that joke. His family was the most important thing in his life. He was a fierce protector to anyone he loved. Always a free spirit, Jose lived his life to the fullest. He had many interests, such as aviation, nature, exploring new places, and animals.
He is survived by Angelina Chapeton, his wife; Rafael Chapeton, his son; Cristina Black, his daughter; Elena Miller, his daughter; and many grandchildren.